Robotic tree removal and why homeowners love it!
The tree care industry has advanced into the modern era through computerized technology. Specialized equipment reduces overall risk to homeowner’s property and tree care workers. Most importantly, the use of a robotic crane greatly minimizes the time that the climbing arborist is physically in the tree.
As a homeowner, you will benefit because more efficient methods of mechanized tree removal will reduce your price. A knuckle boom grapple saw truck reduces the amount of onsite labor required to process the tree as it is removed. Jobs usually are completed quicker and more safely which results in a predictable, controlled cost.
Knuckle Boom Crane Tree Removal | Product Application Overview | Hiab
At Gerrein Green, robotic tree removal is the “go-to” method for difficult and dangerous trees. Often, trees marked for removal are not safe for climbers because they are not structurally stable. As an example, ash trees that were killed by the emerald ash borer become extremely hazardous to climb.
What makes a knuckle boom crane so unique?
A straight-boom crane requires the extension of its boom much further than a knuckle boom crane. A knuckle boom crane has the ability to bend at multiple pivot points along the boom and is able to reach over a building with less total boom extended. Less extension of the boom allows for tree work in tight spaces where a traditional straight-boom crane cannot maneuver.
A knuckle boom’s ability to articulate (or bend at its joints) allows it to reach under wires which is safer than reaching over with a traditional boom crane and sling. Traditional crane booms can swing or bounce and may contact the wires. Knuckle boom cranes are designed to carry higher capacities at lower boom angles and are capable of operating at horizontal and negative boom angles.
Does a knuckle boom crane work in every tree removal situation?
No, there are a few limitations which usually apply to both the traditional cranes and the knuckle booms. For proper setup and safe lifting, the ground must be stable and there must be enough space for the stabilizers to expand. The operator must be trained and experienced to properly set the crane and use it within its capacities and limits. Most cranes are equipped with a computerized load monitoring system that alerts the operator if the crane reaches its lifting limit.
Many other factors play a role in deciding if a knuckle boom crane can be used for a tree removal project, such as:
- What type of tree, how tall and wide is the tree?
- What obstacles will you have to work around?
- Is there space for a landing zone within the crane’s reach?
- Can the crane be set on a solid surface capable of supporting it and its loads?
Why we use the term “ROBOTIC”
Gerrein Green’s crane is controlled by a wireless remote control that allows the operator better views of the tree being removed. Traditional straight-boom crane operators must work from the seat at the base of the boom and rely on radio communication from the ground crew when their line of sight is blocked. Using a remote control system greatly increases safety because the operator can adjust the boom precisely as needed. Also, when working in close proximity to any obstacle, the operator is free to move around and find the best view.
Often, when Mr. Chop pulls up to a job location, the homeowners ask, “I thought you were using a crane to remove my tree?” They do not realize that the knuckle boom folds up and is actually very compact. Homeowners are amazed when the articulating boom unfolds and then proceeds to reach over their house to grab a tree. The boom appears to be robotic as it bends and expands effortlessly to grab and cut tree limbs one by one.
The grapple saw attachment…
While the articulating boom is quite impressive, the ability to cut the tree without any workers in the tree by using the grapple saw attachment is robotic like. Once the grapple securely attaches to the tree, the chainsaw is activated while the tree limb is held tightly. The grapple saw can be rotated and tilted to maneuver the pick around obstacles and carefully set it in the landing zone. The turnaround time between cuts is quicker because there’s no wait on a climber or bucket operator to move around between the cuts. In many situations, the operator can safely remove an entire tree by himself without any ground personnel.
Why Knuckle Boom Cranes Are Perfect For Tree Care – CPS GROUP – (cps-group.com)
The Versatility and Safe Use of Knuckle Boom Cranes in Tree Care – Tree Care Industry Magazine (tcia.org)
Robotic tree removal
Gerrein Green’s articulating crane with the grapple saw attachment, otherwise known as “Mr. Chop” is an integral tool that provides safe and efficient tree removal in very difficult situations. The highly trained operator must rely on tree knowledge and their experience. Although we refer to Mr. Chop as robotic, the human element is still the most important safety factor. The operator’s ability to gauge a tree’s weight and the characteristics of various tree wood fibers is critical since it affects the size of picks and angle of cuts. The operator must have extensive tree knowledge for optimum performance and safety.